CVE-2023-6245

Infinite decoding loop through specially crafted payload

Description

The Candid library causes a Denial of Service while parsing a specially crafted payload with 'empty' data type. For example, if the payload is `record { * ; empty }` and the canister interface expects `record { * }` then the Rust candid decoder treats empty as an extra field required by the type. The problem with the type empty is that the candid Rust library wrongly categorizes empty as a recoverable error when skipping the field and thus causing an infinite decoding loop. Canisters using affected versions of candid are exposed to denial of service by causing the decoding to run indefinitely until the canister traps due to reaching maximum instruction limit per execution round. Repeated exposure to the payload will result in degraded performance of the canister. Note: Canisters written in Motoko are unaffected.

Categories

7.5
CVSS
Severity: High
CVSS 3.1 •
EPSS 0.13%
Third-Party Advisory github.com
Affected: Internet Computer Candid
Published at:
Updated at:

References

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the severity of CVE-2023-6245?
CVE-2023-6245 has been scored as a high severity vulnerability.
How to fix CVE-2023-6245?
To fix CVE-2023-6245, make sure you are using an up-to-date version of the affected component(s) by checking the vendor release notes. As for now, there are no other specific guidelines available.
Is CVE-2023-6245 being actively exploited in the wild?
As for now, there are no information to confirm that CVE-2023-6245 is being actively exploited. According to its EPSS score, there is a ~0% probability that this vulnerability will be exploited by malicious actors in the next 30 days.
What software or system is affected by CVE-2023-6245?
CVE-2023-6245 affects Internet Computer Candid.
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